Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki

Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki

Introduction

This dish combines tender, herbed chicken meatballs with a creamy, refreshing tzatziki sauce for the ultimate Mediterranean experience. Packed with vibrant flavors like garlic, dill, and lemon, these meatballs are ideal as appetizers, mains, or even in a pita wrap. It’s a wholesome and delicious recipe that’s sure to impress! 🌿🍋

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for a gluten-free option)
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

For the Homemade Tzatziki:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh mint, chopped (optional)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving:

• Pita bread, rice, or salad
• Fresh veggies (cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, etc.)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tzatziki

1. Grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess water using a cheesecloth or clean kitchen towel.
2. In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, dill, mint (if using), olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Make the Meatballs

1. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, red onion, garlic, parsley, dill, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, cumin, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
2. Roll the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter).
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs in batches for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 3: Assemble and Serve

1. Serve the meatballs with a dollop of tzatziki, pita bread, rice, or salad. Add fresh veggies for a complete meal.
2. Garnish with extra dill or parsley for presentation.

Tips for Success

• Moisture Management: Don’t overmix the meatball ingredients to ensure tender meatballs.
• Tzatziki Prep: Removing excess water from the cucumber is crucial for a creamy sauce.
• Meal Prep: Both the meatballs and tzatziki can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

These Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki bring together fresh, bold flavors that transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious. Opa! 🍗🧆🍋